Columbus Crew have signed captain Darlington Nagbe to a long-term contract extension, prolonging his stay in the middle of the park at Lower.com Field through the 2025 MLS campaign.
Since joining the Crew, Nagbe has only continued to cement his legacy as one of the top midfielders to play in the league, playing a key role in Columbus’ 2020 MLS Cup triumph. Nagbe has donned the the Crew’s colors 131 times across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and adding five assists in the process.
The 33-year-old was also integral to Portland Timbers’ and Atlanta United’s respective MLS titles in 2015 and 2018 before signing with Columbus in early 2020. It’s clear to see wherever Nagbe goes, those teams typically go on to compete and win titles. The Crew were eager for him to put pen to paper to continue their quest for their third MLS Cup trophy.
“It’s hard to put into words what Darlington means to this club,” Crew president and general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said in a release. “He is a proven winner and difference-maker who has consistently shown why he is one of the most highly respected players in MLS for his leadership, character, and his performance on the pitch and how he carries himself off it.
“Darlington embodies the essence of a truly elite midfielder – smooth in possession with an uncanny ability to get out of very difficult situations on the field. He is revered by his teammates and opponents alike, and it was a priority for us to secure his long-term future in Columbus. We are excited that he and his family will remain members of the Crew and our city as we strive to win more championships.”
While many players struggle to stay fit on the ‘wrong side of 30-years-old,’ Nagbe doesn’t fit that bill. The former USMNT figure has missed just 13 contests through injury since joining Columbus in nearly four full seasons played, a testament to how serious he takes the game and his recovery methods.
“Playing in my home state the past four years and winning an MLS Cup with the Crew has been really special, and it’s a blessing to continue my career in Columbus, both for me and my family,” said Nagbe. “We have more work to do, but I’m excited about what we’ve accomplished together this season and the future direction of our club.
“I’m proud to represent the Black & Gold, alongside my great teammates, and I’m thankful for the ongoing support from the Haslam, Johnson and Edwards families, Tim Bezbatchenko, Wilfried Nancy, the entire Crew staff and of course, our fans.”
Nagbe and the Crew finished in third place in the Eastern Conference table in 2023 and took care of business in the first round of MLS Cup playoffs, claiming a 2-1 series victory over Atlanta. Nagbe scored the opening goal in the decisive game three and will look to continue his legendary run when the Crew take on Orlando City in the Conference semifinals on November 25 at Exploria Stadium.
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